Beyonce Knowles and Jay-Z have shared the first pictures of their daughter, Blue Ivy Carter.

The superstar couple - who welcomed their first child into the world on January 7 - unveiled a set of intimate family shots on social networking site Tumblr, which show a beaming Beyonce tenderly cradling the tot in her arms and the rapper comforting his adorable daughter as she sleeps.

In an accompanying message, the couple wrote: “We welcome you to share our joy.

“Thank you for respecting our privacy during this beautiful time in our lives.”

After Beyonce gave birth to Blue Ivy last month, the pair admitted they were “in heaven” and described becoming parents as the “best experience” of their lives.

They said in a statement at the time: “Hello Hello Baby Blue! We are happy to announce the arrival of our beautiful daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, born on Saturday, January 7, 2012.

“Her birth was emotional and extremely peaceful, we are in heaven. She was delivered naturally at a healthy 7 lbs and it was the best experience of both of our lives.

“We are thankful to everyone for all your prayers, well wishes, love and support.”

The duo recently filed paperwork with the US Patent and Trademark Office to trademark Blue Ivy Carter’s name to prevent others from profiting from the moniker in the future.